A lively and somewhat chaotic discussion unfolded on Fox News’ popular program “The Five” as co-hosts from differing political perspectives clashed over Vice President Kamala Harris. The heated exchange revolved around the level of support Harris receives from black Americans and accusations regarding her past relationship with former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, sparking intense reactions from all sides.
Jessica Tarlov, representing the liberal viewpoint, began the debate by arguing that Republicans are alienating the black community by continually disparaging Harris. She stated, “There is something crucial that Republicans keep doing that is a major turnoff to the black community, and that’s insulting Kamala Harris. You don’t take someone so meaningful to that community and say she’s a diversity hire.” This statement highlighted the sensitivity and significance of Harris’ role within the black community and the broader implications of political rhetoric.
Co-host Jesse Watters responded with a contentious remark, humorously claiming, “Can I speak for the black community for a second?” Tarlov immediately retorted with a firm “No!” leading Watters to mention his alleged one percent black ancestry. He further referenced a Fox News correspondent’s interactions with the black community, asserting that they do not support Harris. Watters said, “We have Johnny go out and speak to the black community two times a week, and they do not support Kamala Harris,” mentioning a correspondent who works for his prime-time show. This broad and sweeping statement was indicative of the polarizing nature of the debate and the challenges of accurately representing diverse viewpoints.
Tarlov countered by emphasizing Harris’ significant achievements and the offensive nature of the criticisms leveled against her. “If you have one of the highest achieving black women in the country who’s now made it to the vice presidency, and Republicans and people who talk about her on-air say she’s a diversity hire, she only got where she was going because she slept with Willie Brown,” she argued. This assertion led to an outburst from both Watters and co-host Greg Gutfeld, who exclaimed in surprise at the mention of Harris and Brown’s past relationship. Watters, feigning ignorance, asked loudly, “She slept with Willie Brown!?” This moment underscored the sensationalism often present in political discussions on television.
Tarlov, clearly frustrated, tried to clarify, stating, “No, of course not!” Yet, the dialogue continued with Watters asking if Harris’ relationship with Brown was the reason for her political success. This line of questioning reflected a broader narrative that seeks to undermine Harris’ achievements by attributing them to her personal relationships rather than her capabilities and hard work.
Gutfeld concluded the segment with a quip about the irony of spreading rumors while accusing others of doing so. “I love it when people accuse us of spreading rumors by actually citing rumors,” he remarked, bringing a moment of levity to an otherwise tense exchange. The discussion highlighted the controversies and complexities surrounding Harris’ past relationship with Brown, a topic that has been a focal point of media scrutiny and political attacks.
Harris’ relationship with Brown dates back to her early career as a young prosecutor. Brown, then the speaker of the California Assembly and significantly older than Harris, provided her with various luxuries and professional opportunities. The New York Post detailed their relationship, noting that Brown showered Harris with gifts, such as a BMW, and high-profile experiences, including trips to Paris and the Academy Awards. Their relationship, publicized in local media, played a role in Harris’ early career, including her appointment to a well-paid state commission position by Brown. These appointments and opportunities have been portrayed by some as pivotal to her meteoric rise in California politics.
Brown himself has acknowledged his influence on Harris’ career in a 2019 opinion piece. “Yes, we dated,” he wrote. “Yes, I may have influenced her career by appointing her to two state commissions when I was Assembly speaker. And I certainly helped with her first race for district attorney in San Francisco.” This admission has fueled ongoing debates about the nature of their relationship and its impact on Harris’ political trajectory.
Despite the controversy, Harris’ accomplishments are substantial and multifaceted. She has navigated the complexities of political life with resilience, eventually becoming the first female, first black, and first Asian American vice president of the United States. Her journey reflects the challenges and triumphs of breaking barriers in a field historically dominated by white men.
Brown’s support for Harris has continued, with him endorsing her for president ahead of the Democratic National Convention. “Brown, 90, has also taken credit for helping in Harris’ meteoric political rise. Last week, he joined the chorus of prominent Democratic Party members who have already endorsed her for president before next month’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago,” the NY Post reported. The dynamic between Harris and Brown remains a notable chapter in her political journey, illustrating the complexities and challenges she has faced and the support she has received along the way.
In conclusion, the segment on “The Five” exemplifies the intense and often polarizing nature of political discourse in contemporary media. The debate over Kamala Harris’ support within the black community and the implications of her past relationship with Willie Brown underscores the broader societal issues of race, gender, and political power. Harris’ career, marked by significant achievements and controversies, continues to be a focal point of political discussions as she serves as vice president and potentially sets her sights on higher office.